Dance Movement Therapy in Polk County, FL
When people are able to express themselves through art, music, dance, or writing, they are able to connect with their emotions in a new way, and are able to release trauma and begin to heal.
I utilize a variety of treatment methods and tools to help my clients heal and grow. These include expressive arts therapy, trauma-informed therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and embodied expression.
When people are able to express themselves through art, music, dance, or writing, they are able to connect with their emotions in a new way, and are able to release trauma and begin to heal.
I utilize a variety of treatment methods and tools to help my clients heal and grow. These include expressive arts therapy, trauma-informed therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and embodied expression.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a Master of Social Work from Fordham University and a Post-Master Certificate in Trauma-Informed Clinical Practice from NYU. I specialize in trauma, including generational trauma and identity-related stress, and I understand how deeply emotional pain can impact both the mind and body. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, integrating each person’s culture, family history, and place in society. I believe in whole-person care that acknowledges the complexity of who you are and how your experiences have shaped you.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a Master of Social Work from Fordham University and a Post-Master Certificate in Trauma-Informed Clinical Practice from NYU. I specialize in trauma, including generational trauma and identity-related stress, and I understand how deeply emotional pain can impact both the mind and body. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, integrating each person’s culture, family history, and place in society. I believe in whole-person care that acknowledges the complexity of who you are and how your experiences have shaped you.
Online Therapists
I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Registered Dance/ Movement Therapist.
I utilize creative movement, art-making, and musical expression as therapeutic mediums, which allows for flexibility in sessions where words are not always necessary. I have extensive experience in working with LGBTQIA+ populations, teens and young adults, trauma and PTSD, and a range of personality disorders.
I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Registered Dance/ Movement Therapist.
I utilize creative movement, art-making, and musical expression as therapeutic mediums, which allows for flexibility in sessions where words are not always necessary. I have extensive experience in working with LGBTQIA+ populations, teens and young adults, trauma and PTSD, and a range of personality disorders.
I use a combination of expressive arts, Internal Family Systems, and other evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (using eye movement reprocessing similar to EMDR) to process trauma and combat symptoms of depression and anxiety.
I am a creative by heart, and a counselor by trade. It is my pleasure to hold space for people as they seek to get to know themselves better and learn how to best solve their own problems. I am a firm believer that deep down, people know what is right for them, and they know how to solve their own problems. My job as a counselor is to help you remove the layers of cultural conditioning, negative self-talk, trauma memories, and more to help you get reconnected with your self. My goal is to stand beside you as we examine barriers, explore possibilities, and help you find your inner strength to fight any battles that come your way.
I use a combination of expressive arts, Internal Family Systems, and other evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (using eye movement reprocessing similar to EMDR) to process trauma and combat symptoms of depression and anxiety.
I am a creative by heart, and a counselor by trade. It is my pleasure to hold space for people as they seek to get to know themselves better and learn how to best solve their own problems. I am a firm believer that deep down, people know what is right for them, and they know how to solve their own problems. My job as a counselor is to help you remove the layers of cultural conditioning, negative self-talk, trauma memories, and more to help you get reconnected with your self. My goal is to stand beside you as we examine barriers, explore possibilities, and help you find your inner strength to fight any battles that come your way.
Do you desire to step into your best self? If so, I'd love to walk this journey with you side by side. I am passionate, empathetic, and driven about empowering individuals, families, couples, and children. The aim is to help you discover tools for changing, healing, and self-actualization. We are all unique, so each session builds upon each other for your distinct evolving needs, desired goals, and overall wellness. My goal in collaboratively working with you is to focus on development, enhancement, enrichment, and growth. Call or email me today. I look forward to hearing from you.
Do you desire to step into your best self? If so, I'd love to walk this journey with you side by side. I am passionate, empathetic, and driven about empowering individuals, families, couples, and children. The aim is to help you discover tools for changing, healing, and self-actualization. We are all unique, so each session builds upon each other for your distinct evolving needs, desired goals, and overall wellness. My goal in collaboratively working with you is to focus on development, enhancement, enrichment, and growth. Call or email me today. I look forward to hearing from you.
Life has a way of taking unexpected turns, and reaching out for support during those moments is an act of courage. I’m here to offer a safe, steady, and nonjudgmental space where you can breathe, be heard, and begin to find clarity again. I respond quickly, honor your time, and will do everything I can to accommodate your needs.
With over three decades of experience as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, Certified Vocational Evaluator, Certified Yoga Instructor, and Tibetan Sound Healer, my work blends evidence-based practices with holistic modalities.
Life has a way of taking unexpected turns, and reaching out for support during those moments is an act of courage. I’m here to offer a safe, steady, and nonjudgmental space where you can breathe, be heard, and begin to find clarity again. I respond quickly, honor your time, and will do everything I can to accommodate your needs.
With over three decades of experience as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, Certified Vocational Evaluator, Certified Yoga Instructor, and Tibetan Sound Healer, my work blends evidence-based practices with holistic modalities.
Virginia Gibala, MA, LMHC is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor practicing in Florida. Virginia received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the Ricardo Palma University in Lima, Peru in 2000 and then moved to Gainesville, Florida and received her Master of Arts in Counseling at Webster University in 2004. After practicing under supervision for a few years, she became Licensed in Florida since 2010. She has experienced working with depression, anxiety, lost, abandonment, relationship problems, and many other mental health concerns.
Virginia Gibala, MA, LMHC is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor practicing in Florida. Virginia received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the Ricardo Palma University in Lima, Peru in 2000 and then moved to Gainesville, Florida and received her Master of Arts in Counseling at Webster University in 2004. After practicing under supervision for a few years, she became Licensed in Florida since 2010. She has experienced working with depression, anxiety, lost, abandonment, relationship problems, and many other mental health concerns.
REMOTE VIDEO SESSIONS NOW AVAILABLE! Everyone thinks you are fine, but you go to work and no one can tell that you’re struggling inside. You feel depressed, anxious, worn down. All you want to do is sleep and shut out the world. The self-contempt, criticism, and doubt are real, and they are relentless. You want to reach out for help but feel guilty, even selfish. By putting everyone else at the top of your list, you’ve neglected and dishonored yourself. What you really want is to feel a sense of worth, like you belong, like you have something to contribute to this vast world.
REMOTE VIDEO SESSIONS NOW AVAILABLE! Everyone thinks you are fine, but you go to work and no one can tell that you’re struggling inside. You feel depressed, anxious, worn down. All you want to do is sleep and shut out the world. The self-contempt, criticism, and doubt are real, and they are relentless. You want to reach out for help but feel guilty, even selfish. By putting everyone else at the top of your list, you’ve neglected and dishonored yourself. What you really want is to feel a sense of worth, like you belong, like you have something to contribute to this vast world.
Rooted in dance/ movement therapy, somatic practices and positive psychology, UniversALL Healing blends therapeutic trauma-informed care to nurture the mind-body connection through a compassionate, strength-based approach.
Whether you’re untangling anxiety, softening grief, mending old wounds, or transitioning into new life chapters, UniversALL Healing honors each unique story — spoken and unspoken, still and in motion.
Rooted in dance/ movement therapy, somatic practices and positive psychology, UniversALL Healing blends therapeutic trauma-informed care to nurture the mind-body connection through a compassionate, strength-based approach.
Whether you’re untangling anxiety, softening grief, mending old wounds, or transitioning into new life chapters, UniversALL Healing honors each unique story — spoken and unspoken, still and in motion.
Licensed in FL, NY and WA with training in EMDR, Professional Resilience, Trauma-Informed Care, Yoga, Dance Therapy, Art Therapy, Expressive Arts, Somatic Therapy, CBT, DBT, and more!
Journey Forward Counseling & Wellness is a bilingual, trauma-informed therapy practice in Brandon & across Florida. Our team of therapists helps individuals, families, and professionals move past stress, anxiety, and burnout with somatic and evidence-based care. We believe healing is possible — and we make it accessible, fast, and culturally responsive.
Our group practice was built for helpers, families, and professionals who give so much to others that there’s little left for themselves. With specialties ranging from trauma and anxiety to parenting, relationships, and burnout recovery, our therapists meet you where you are now.
Licensed in FL, NY and WA with training in EMDR, Professional Resilience, Trauma-Informed Care, Yoga, Dance Therapy, Art Therapy, Expressive Arts, Somatic Therapy, CBT, DBT, and more!
Journey Forward Counseling & Wellness is a bilingual, trauma-informed therapy practice in Brandon & across Florida. Our team of therapists helps individuals, families, and professionals move past stress, anxiety, and burnout with somatic and evidence-based care. We believe healing is possible — and we make it accessible, fast, and culturally responsive.
Our group practice was built for helpers, families, and professionals who give so much to others that there’s little left for themselves. With specialties ranging from trauma and anxiety to parenting, relationships, and burnout recovery, our therapists meet you where you are now.
Much of my professional experience includes a vast range of ages including children, adolescents, young adults, and seniors. I value the importance community connections by reducing the stigma of mental health in organizations as well as stress reduction techniques. I enjoy working with couples, and families who are struggling in communication. I specialize with overcoming life difficulties including trauma, grief and loss, relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, coping skills, self-esteem, infertility, family conflict and unexpected birthing outcomes. As well as overcoming perinatal/ maternal post-partum disorders.
Much of my professional experience includes a vast range of ages including children, adolescents, young adults, and seniors. I value the importance community connections by reducing the stigma of mental health in organizations as well as stress reduction techniques. I enjoy working with couples, and families who are struggling in communication. I specialize with overcoming life difficulties including trauma, grief and loss, relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, coping skills, self-esteem, infertility, family conflict and unexpected birthing outcomes. As well as overcoming perinatal/ maternal post-partum disorders.
Hey, There! Is life stressing you out? Are you feeling lost, stuck, anxious, or depressed? Are you struggling to be authentic, motivated, and happy? Wanting a non-judgemental space to vent and process? Say Less.
We learn that we're meant to struggle alone. Thats Bullsh.t! It’s courageous to choose to change. You’re brave for including a support system in this vulnerable moment of self-exploration.
Hey, There! Is life stressing you out? Are you feeling lost, stuck, anxious, or depressed? Are you struggling to be authentic, motivated, and happy? Wanting a non-judgemental space to vent and process? Say Less.
We learn that we're meant to struggle alone. Thats Bullsh.t! It’s courageous to choose to change. You’re brave for including a support system in this vulnerable moment of self-exploration.
Taking the big step of looking for help and recognizing that we can be a big part of improving our lives is something to celebrate. It´s the hardest one. I am here to help you become aware of what you can do to improve your quality of life. I utilized cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you identify and change negative patterns. This approach will help you learn new tools and skills and use them to aid you in making healthier choices and dealing with life difficulties differently.
Taking the big step of looking for help and recognizing that we can be a big part of improving our lives is something to celebrate. It´s the hardest one. I am here to help you become aware of what you can do to improve your quality of life. I utilized cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you identify and change negative patterns. This approach will help you learn new tools and skills and use them to aid you in making healthier choices and dealing with life difficulties differently.
You don’t have to carry everything alone.
I help high-achieving persons, leaders and survivors who are tired of being strong for everyone else — yet are ready to finally be supported themselves. My work centers on navigating trauma, identity, relationships, life transitions, and the emotional weight of being “the one who holds it all together.” I served across continents, legal systems, and diverse communities, developing real-world solutions for people who have survived complex experiences and environments. I understand systems and I understand the real human beings who move through them every day.
You don’t have to carry everything alone.
I help high-achieving persons, leaders and survivors who are tired of being strong for everyone else — yet are ready to finally be supported themselves. My work centers on navigating trauma, identity, relationships, life transitions, and the emotional weight of being “the one who holds it all together.” I served across continents, legal systems, and diverse communities, developing real-world solutions for people who have survived complex experiences and environments. I understand systems and I understand the real human beings who move through them every day.
Three factors are distintic to my practice that I am a poliglots, speak and do therapy in three languages, English, Spanish and Portuguese/Brazilian and 5 years of study on knowledge of differents cultures and ethnic groups-social anthropology; and my great ability to engage clients in the therapeutic process, that many studies has shown is the most important aspect of therapy success.
My clients' concerns, issues, problems, goals are different in each client, they have to be treated as such, therefore each treatment is unique, customized. Guided by different modalities I have worked and new ones, accordingly to their conditions.
Three factors are distintic to my practice that I am a poliglots, speak and do therapy in three languages, English, Spanish and Portuguese/Brazilian and 5 years of study on knowledge of differents cultures and ethnic groups-social anthropology; and my great ability to engage clients in the therapeutic process, that many studies has shown is the most important aspect of therapy success.
My clients' concerns, issues, problems, goals are different in each client, they have to be treated as such, therefore each treatment is unique, customized. Guided by different modalities I have worked and new ones, accordingly to their conditions.
First, I just want to say that taking the first step to find a therapist is incredible. This is an exciting moment. Contacting a counselor can sometimes be a little intimidating (I know from experience!) but I want to reassure you that it is the start to an amazing journey. As your counselor I will be there to support you as you overcome challenges, change harmful habits or behaviors, and heal from the past/present. I work to provide a positive, safe, and peaceful environment for my clients. I welcome humor, honesty, and authenticity as you move towards your unique goals.
First, I just want to say that taking the first step to find a therapist is incredible. This is an exciting moment. Contacting a counselor can sometimes be a little intimidating (I know from experience!) but I want to reassure you that it is the start to an amazing journey. As your counselor I will be there to support you as you overcome challenges, change harmful habits or behaviors, and heal from the past/present. I work to provide a positive, safe, and peaceful environment for my clients. I welcome humor, honesty, and authenticity as you move towards your unique goals.
Is your nervous system stuck in a constant state of "Fight or Flight" and you struggle to relax or focus? Do you feel easily anxious, overwhelmed, irritable, or depressed? Your Vagus Nerve may need some love and attention, as this is our largest cranial nerve that connects Mind + Body. If you are ready to trade your constant "Fight or Flight" response for a more resilient nervous system that can bounce back quicker from stressful events or past trauma, Vagal Toning could be your solution! As a Vagal Toning Practitioner, I teach you how to regulate your own nervous system quickly and easily with the healing power of your own hands!
Is your nervous system stuck in a constant state of "Fight or Flight" and you struggle to relax or focus? Do you feel easily anxious, overwhelmed, irritable, or depressed? Your Vagus Nerve may need some love and attention, as this is our largest cranial nerve that connects Mind + Body. If you are ready to trade your constant "Fight or Flight" response for a more resilient nervous system that can bounce back quicker from stressful events or past trauma, Vagal Toning could be your solution! As a Vagal Toning Practitioner, I teach you how to regulate your own nervous system quickly and easily with the healing power of your own hands!
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida, I specialize in applying systems theory to help children, individuals, couples, and families navigate the complexities of personal growth, close relationships, and social relationships through self-discovery and self-communication.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida, I specialize in applying systems theory to help children, individuals, couples, and families navigate the complexities of personal growth, close relationships, and social relationships through self-discovery and self-communication.
I know how much courage it takes to reach out for support, and I want you to know that you’re not alone. With over 15 years of experience as a counselor, I’ve had the honor of walking alongside children, adults, and older adults through many of life’s most challenging and meaningful moments. I believe therapy is more than just a place to manage symptoms. It’s a space to rediscover your strengths, deepen self-awareness, and create lasting, meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, grief, life transitions, or simply feeling stuck, I’m here to offer a compassionate, grounded presence.
I know how much courage it takes to reach out for support, and I want you to know that you’re not alone. With over 15 years of experience as a counselor, I’ve had the honor of walking alongside children, adults, and older adults through many of life’s most challenging and meaningful moments. I believe therapy is more than just a place to manage symptoms. It’s a space to rediscover your strengths, deepen self-awareness, and create lasting, meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, grief, life transitions, or simply feeling stuck, I’m here to offer a compassionate, grounded presence.
Greetings! I am Roosevelt Badger, LCSW, and I am passionate about helping individuals, families, and couples enhance their lives and achieve meaningful recovery! I believe in using person-centered approaches and evidence-based interventions to provide the support you need in a way that feels tailored and effective for you.
Greetings! I am Roosevelt Badger, LCSW, and I am passionate about helping individuals, families, and couples enhance their lives and achieve meaningful recovery! I believe in using person-centered approaches and evidence-based interventions to provide the support you need in a way that feels tailored and effective for you.
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Dance Movement Therapy Therapists
What can I expect from dance/movement therapy?
During dance therapy, the therapist will guide the client through dance movements that metaphorically represent a particular challenge, reflect their internal emotional state, or otherwise express physically what is happening for the client mentally. The therapist may “mirror” the client’s movements or simply observe. The client may be encouraged, as they dance, to pay attention to their breath or other physical sensations. Afterward, the therapist and client will often debrief to help the client process the experience. Is dance/movement therapy evidence-based? A small body of research has found that dance therapy can help treat conditions like depression, PTSD, anxiety, and eating disorders, as well as nonclinical issues like low self-esteem or family conflict. However, some experts caution that the evidence in favor of dance therapy is not as robust as that of other, more established therapies, and some of the published research is of low quality. Many recommend that dance therapy be used as a complementary rather than stand-alone treatment. Can dance therapy help with depression? Some research suggests that dance/movement therapy can aid in the treatment of depression, especially when combined with other therapies; some studies, for example, report that dance therapy combined with antidepressants or talk therapy is more effective than those treatments alone. The positive effects of dance therapy may come from the movement itself, as it’s well-known that physical activity can improve mood and bolster motivation in those struggling with depression. What are the limitations of dance therapy? People with disabilities or other conditions that hinder movement may find it more challenging to participate in dance therapy, though a well-trained therapist will take a client’s physical limitations into account when designing a treatment plan. Experts also warn that certain conditions, particularly eating disorders, should never be treated with dance therapy alone; it may, however, be used as an adjunct therapy.
Is dance/movement therapy evidence-based?
A small body of research has found that dance therapy can help treat conditions like depression, PTSD, anxiety, and eating disorders, as well as nonclinical issues like low self-esteem or family conflict. However, some experts caution that the evidence in favor of dance therapy is not as robust as that of other, more established therapies, and some of the published research is of low quality. Many recommend that dance therapy be used as a complementary rather than stand-alone treatment.
Can dance therapy help with depression?
Some research suggests that dance/movement therapy can aid in the treatment of depression, especially when combined with other therapies; some studies, for example, report that dance therapy combined with antidepressants or talk therapy is more effective than those treatments alone. The positive effects of dance therapy may come from the movement itself, as it’s well-known that physical activity can improve mood and bolster motivation in those struggling with depression.
What are the limitations of dance therapy?
People with disabilities or other conditions that hinder movement may find it more challenging to participate in dance therapy, though a well-trained therapist will take a client’s physical limitations into account when designing a treatment plan. Experts also warn that certain conditions, particularly eating disorders, should never be treated with dance therapy alone; it may, however, be used as an adjunct therapy.